[Goro grants his hand to hold, face buried into Belle's short fur as she curls up in front of him. Gold slips out quietly.]

I haven't thought about her in years. Some friend I am, huh. I don't remember her name either.

[A short laugh, squeezing Akira's hand gently.]

I think that was when... I learned the world could truly be a cruel place. [That if you couldn't ptotect it, then you shouldn't have it, but that applies less now. His voice grows softer.] You're the only one I've ever told this to. Sor-- mm.

[Don't apologize, he'd said.]